Born to the Roman nobility. Married to Egnatia Mariniana. Father of Gallienus and Valerianus Minor. Chosen princeps senatus in 238. Chosen censor by the Roman Sentate, but declined the position. Emperor of the Roman Empire from 253 to 260. In 258 he began a persecution of Christians, ordering the immediate execution of all bishops, priests and deacons, and the execution or forced labour of any citizen who refused to offer sacrifice to the gods. The persecution lasted for two years, and while many died, it was ineffective in suppressing the faith.